After being told the prior day that the gates would be open, leading to the summit, the first gate was closed... 3.7 miles from the summit. I hiked with a 30-lb. backpack while pushing my mountain bike (most of the ascent), then coasted down the mountain on the bike with relative ease (and speed).

From Little Summit to Mount Constitution, there was 1-2" of fresh snow (from the prior day's storm) on the road. I met three men at the summit who were surveying the metal communications tower. Apparently, the owner of the summit communications tower is tired of the vandalization happening to the tower by park visitors, and is contemplating tearing it down. But the old stone tower will remain, of course.

The views from the summit tower are breathtaking. Highly recommended summit. This was my third County Highpoint in Washington State.

Tough drive to the summit. Good thing I packed an extra liter of water and 3 granola bars. Almost turned back at the 3rd overlook, fearing the wrangler couldn't take the incline. Thank God, for the vending machine near the rugged summit. If it wasn't for it, I may not be writing these ridiculous comments today.
I went on a beautiful cloudy and misty day. I could see for inches.

Took the ferry from Anacortes to Orcas at 8 AM, went around the island with my bike and hiked up via Cold Springs Trail. Despite the descent via Twin Lakes/Mountain Lake was twice as long it took the same time (2 hours).
Amazing views, especially at the upper Cold Springs Trail and the summit/tower. Hiking along the incredibly clear Mountain Lake was a real treat!
Finally came back to Anacortes at 9 PM and slept away half the next day.

A nice winter hike with a superb view. Even though there was no snow in the Cascades below 3000 feet in February this year there was snow on Mt. Constitution below 800 feet. Because of the snow and ice the summit road was gated at the turnoff for Mountain Lake. I did a loop from the turnoff going to Mountain Lake and then up to the Little Summit and then on to the true summit. Took the road down. The skies were clear and you could see forever though Baker dominated the scene.